If someone is bitten by a dog in Virginia, you may be able to bring a claim against the owner or owners of the dog. If you were the victim of a dog attack, speak to a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. You may be entitled to financial compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

At Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp, we understand how scary and upsetting a dog bite can be. Contact our experienced lawyers to schedule a free review of your claim and determine what course of action we recommend for your situation. Call us today at 833-997-1774 to learn more about your legal options.

What Are Virginia’s Laws on Dog Bite Liability?

Virginia follows a combination of the “one-bite rule” and a negligence standard for dog bite liability. Under the one-bite rule, a dog owner may be held liable if they knew or should have known their dog was dangerous, often based on a prior bite or aggressive behavior. However, this does not mean that a dog must have bitten someone before for the owner to be held liable. If the dog displays aggressive tendencies, such as growling or snapping, and the owner fails to take precautions, they can still be found negligent.

Virginia law also imposes a duty on dog owners to exercise reasonable care to prevent their pets from injuring others. This includes adhering to leash laws and securing dogs on private property. If a dog owner breaches this duty, they may be held liable for any resulting injuries. Local ordinances may have additional rules, such as leash requirements, which can strengthen a victim’s claim if violated.

What Steps Should You Take After a Dog Bite Incident in Virginia?

If you are bitten by a dog, taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim. Start by seeking medical attention immediately, even if the wound seems minor. Dog bites can lead to infections like rabies or tetanus; a medical professional can properly document your injuries. Keep all medical records, as they are critical evidence in your claim.

Identify the dog and its owner. Obtain the owner’s contact information and request proof of the dog’s vaccination status. If the owner refuses to cooperate or the dog is a stray, report the incident to local animal control authorities. This ensures the incident is officially documented and the dog is checked for potential dangers, such as rabies.

Gather evidence, including photographs of your injuries, the location of the incident, and the dog. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information and statements. Report the bite to your local animal control or police department, as this can establish an official record of the attack and may reveal any prior complaints about the dog.

Lastly, consult an attorney experienced in Virginia dog bite laws to evaluate your claim and guide you through the legal process.

What Compensation Can You Recover in a Virginia Dog Bite Claim?

Virginia law allows dog bite victims to seek compensation for a wide range of damages, depending on the severity of the injury and its impact on their lives.

  • Economic damages: These include medical expenses such as emergency care, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and therapy. If you miss work due to the injury, you can also recover lost wages and future earning potential.
  • Non-economic damages: Victims may claim compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, permanent scarring or disfigurement, and loss of quality of life. For example, if a bite results in visible scars or psychological trauma, these damages can be significant.
  • Punitive damages: In rare cases, if the dog owner acted recklessly or maliciously—for instance, by knowingly allowing a dangerous dog to roam freely—the court may award punitive damages to punish the owner and deter similar behavior.

The amount of compensation depends on the specific circumstances of the case, including the severity of the injuries, the level of negligence, and the impact on the victim’s life.

Do You Need an Attorney to File a Dog Bite Claim in Virginia?

While it is possible to file a dog bite claim without an attorney, having legal representation can significantly improve the outcome. Virginia’s laws on dog bite liability require proving negligence or the owner’s knowledge of the dog’s dangerous tendencies, which can be legally complex. An experienced attorney can help gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case to prove liability.

Insurance companies representing dog owners often try to minimize payouts or deny claims entirely. An attorney can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. If necessary, they can also represent you in court.

What Should I Do If I Think I Have a Personal Injury Case?

If you have suffered dog bite injuries, call 833-997-1774 to schedule a free consultation with one of our dedicated personal injury lawyers. At Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp, we have obtained more than $100 million in settlements and awards for our clients and will work diligently to get you the financial compensation you deserve. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if you win your case!